National Peanut Butter Cookie Day is a delightful celebration dedicated to one of America’s favorite treats. Observed annually on June 12, this day invites peanut butter lovers to indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter cookies, often characterized by their iconic crisscross pattern made with a fork.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: June 12
- Tagged as: Food Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalPeanutButterCookieDay
- When was it founded?: The specific founding date is not documented, but peanut butter cookies gained popularity in the early 20th century.
- Who founded it?: The promotion of peanut butter and its uses, including cookies, is largely attributed to George Washington Carver, who published recipes in 1916.
History of National Peanut Butter Cookie Day
The history of peanut butter cookies can be traced back to the early 1900s. While peanuts have been consumed for thousands of years, the modern version of peanut butter was developed in the United States by Dr. John Harvey Kellogg in 1895. George Washington Carver later popularized peanuts and their uses, including cookies, through his influential pamphlet “How to Grow the Peanut and 105 Ways of Preparing it for Human Consumption.”
In 1932, the first recipe featuring the now-familiar crisscross fork marks was published in The Schenectady Gazette, solidifying its place in American baking culture.
Timeline
- 1895: Dr. John Harvey Kellogg patents peanut butter.
- 1916: George Washington Carver publishes recipes for peanut cookies.
- 1932: First crisscross fork-marked peanut butter cookie recipe appears.
- 1936: The crisscross pattern becomes a hallmark of peanut butter cookies.
- Present Day: National Peanut Butter Cookie Day celebrated annually on June 12.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June | 12 | Thursday |
| 2026 | June | 12 | Friday |
| 2027 | June | 12 | Saturday |
Observed
National Peanut Butter Cookie Day is observed by baking and sharing delicious peanut butter cookies with family and friends. Many people also explore creative variations of the classic recipe, such as adding chocolate chips or making sandwich cookies with marshmallow fluff.
Fun Facts About Peanut Butter Cookies
- The average American consumes approximately 1,500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches before graduating high school.
- It takes about 540 peanuts to make a standard jar of peanut butter.
- Peanut butter cookies are often gluten-free when made with just three ingredients: peanut butter, sugar, and an egg.
Quiz
- What year did George Washington Carver publish his famous pamphlet?
- Answer: 1916
- What is the iconic decoration on peanut butter cookies?
- Answer: Crisscross fork marks
- What are two key ingredients in a basic peanut butter cookie?
- Answer: Peanut butter and sugar
FAQs
What are some popular variations of peanut butter cookies?
Popular variations include adding chocolate chips, making them into sandwich cookies with frosting or fluff, or using alternative sweeteners for healthier options.
Can I make peanut butter cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Simple recipes using just peanut butter, sugar, and an egg do not require flour and are naturally gluten-free.
Importance of National Peanut Butter Cookie Day
This day highlights not only the joy of baking but also celebrates the cultural significance of peanuts in American cuisine. It serves as a reminder of how simple ingredients can create beloved treats that bring people together.
Related Holidays
- National Peanut Day (September 13)
- National Cookie Day (December 4)
- National Baking Month (October)